BENJAMIN PRIEBE The StandardSCUGOG: The new leaders of Scugog Township were sworn into office during the afternoon of Monday, Dec. 1, joining into the long-awaited tradition of honouring past officials, and recognition of the new. The mostly new council was elected by voters on Monday, Oct. 27. Mayor Tom Rowett, who upset former mayor Chuck Mercier after an intense campaign, happily donned the chains of office and pledged to serve the residents he represents to the best of his ability, and without corruption. Mayor Rowett's acceptance speech mirrored the sentiments and general attitude of his new councillors, offering thanks to his supporters and family, and stating "We have a large and beautiful township, so it is crucial that we connect and work together, to serve the people as a family." Citing Scugog's impending growth, and the concerns which come along with it, Mayor Rowett and many of the new ward councillors shared sentiments of change, support for local businesses, and new ways of looking at the issues which face the residents of Scugog - namely; the Greenbank Airways project, sewage capacity, crumbling infrastructure, and increasing taxes. Acclaimed Regional Councillor Bobbie Drew retained her seat, and will remain on-hand as liaison to the Region of Durham. In Ward 1, Betty Somerville took the former post of Larry Corrigan, who stepped down after a strong career as Councillor. Ward 2 saw Janna Guido remove the incumbent John Hancock, with promises of a business-minded Scugog. Don Kett of Scugog Island beat out Town Crier Bill McKee for Ward 3, after former councillor Jim Howard declined to run for a second term. Wilma Wotten of Ward 4 was the only incumbent candidate to run against a challenger and retain her position, thanks in part to a policy for community improvement. In Ward 5, Jennifer Back defeated incumbent Howard Danson for the councillors chair. The new Council of the Township of Scugog has had a taste of their political proceedings during a week of workshops and training, and will tackle their first regular meeting inside Council Chambers, located at 181 Perry St., at 10 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 8.

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